Antique Persian Jajim – Jajims are typically woven in square sizes and are most easily identified by their vertical stripe patterns. They flat woven kilim like carpets that originate from Iran and are woven in horizontal loom. The exact date these ancient cloths were first woven is not entirely known, though it is believed that some of the antique textiles illustrated in fourteenth century Persian paintings may have been Jajims.
Regardless of the exact year in which these extraordinary cloths were first created, it is clear that the jajim has a very long history and has held an important role in Iran’s artistic past.
The material used to make the jajims was usually wool, and the dyes used for older jajims were all vegetable-based. Sadly the number of antique Persian jajims that are left intact is decreasing rapidly, since it is a common practice to unravel these textiles and use them to repair and restore other rugs and flat woven kilims that may fetch a higher price.
Traditionally, Persian jajims served many purposes. Most frequently, they were used as bed covers in order to protect the wearer from the cold. Freshly-made jajims were often coarse and rough to the touch, but soon softened after frequent use. Often a family would place a charcoal brazier in the center of a jajim and all sit around it. Additionally, jajim owners would often spread them on the ground and sleep on top of them. Thicker jajims were employed as horse covers, while thinner jajims were frequently used for decoration and have been prized as luxury items in Iran for centuries.
THE NAZMIYAL NEWSLETTER
Get new arrivals, rug inspiration, educational blogs, and collection highlights delivered to your inbox.
By subscribing, you agree to receive marketing emails from Nazmiyal. Unsubscribe anytime. View our Privacy Policy.
